ACCOUNTANTS and business advisers Clive Owen & Co LLP has set up a new technology business to reflect growing demand for high-quality IT support and services.

The firm, which has offices in Darlington, Durham and York, has launched Clive Owen Technology Services to reflect the growing number of clients who need IT solutions to improve efficiency and help them grow.

The move enables it to develop and expand the range of services it offers clients.

The new service will be led by Lee Huck, who sees the move as reflecting the changing face of technology and the needs of business owners. “We’ve been providing IT solutions for many years to clients, but we’ve seen how the environment has changed and we know that how people choose their IT provider is different to how they choose their accountant,” he said.

“Over recent months we have introduced some key initiatives, including cloud computing and our in-depth software development capabilities. For us to take these forward, we need to be operating in other arenas rather than simply an accounting environment.

Tony Luckett, partner with Clive Owen & Co LLP, said: “We felt it was essential to be able to demonstrate to clients our commitment to moving forward. In addition, they need to feel they are dealing with IT specialists who understand that sector and can compete in that field.

“Many businesses are seeing the results of clear, focused and effective diversification.

“This move for us just re-enforces what we have been doing for many years but perhaps puts it clearer on the map.”